Thrive With AspergersThrive With Aspergershttp://www.myaspergers.net
Helping Aspergers Adults Discover Specialized Tools for Meaningful ConnectionWed, 07 Dec 2016 14:07:03 +0000en-UShourly1Thrive with Aspergers is where neurodiverse Aspergers men (and women) come to learn from dating and professional performance coaches, marriage and family experts, entrepreneurs, and peers, with a focus on balancing both neurodiverse and neurotypical viewpoints. Friendship, dating, marriage, living a rich single life; living with autism; life hacks for work and career advancement; and personal growth development strategies to help you live your best personal and work life.Steve Borgman: Blogger, Connector, CuratorcleanSteve Borgman: Blogger, Connector, Curatorsteveborgmanlcpc@gmail.comsteveborgmanlcpc@gmail.com (Steve Borgman: Blogger, Connector, Curator)Thrive With Aspergers Relationship and Dating Advice | Work | Life HacksThrive With Aspergershttp://www.myaspergers.net/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/Thrive_with_Aspergers_Podcast_Artwork-898.pnghttp://www.myaspergers.net
TV-G39950451ProsperingWithAspergershttps://feedburner.google.com6 Free Strength Test Sites To Help You Succeedhttp://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/free-strength-test/
http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/free-strength-test/#respondMon, 05 Dec 2016 13:00:00 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=4306If you’re reading this, think of yourself as an organization. Within you, you have many strengths. But often, you and I don’t think of our strengths. Rather, we dwell on our weaknesses and limitations. Check out the quote below: Organizations are more than the sum of the individuals that compose them, but the most basic, […]

But often, you and I don’t think of our strengths. Rather, we dwell on our weaknesses and limitations.

Check out the quote below:

Organizations are more than the sum of the individuals that compose them, but the most basic, and perhaps the most important, form of strengths investment lies with the individual. When more individuals within organizations have their talents identified, understood, and integrated into their lives, the organization has greater potential. ~Donald O. Clifton and James K. Harter, Investing in Strengths

Donald Clifton and other researchers challenged business leaders to think about identifying and growing employees’ strengths, instead of only looking at weaknesses.

When we are doing the work we love with the strengths we have, we find we have higher productivity, enjoyment, and results.

I’ve searched the internet to find some of the best free strengths test sites so that you can discover and grow your strengths.

I recently took this test. The nice thing about the test is that it’s fun to take, and once you’re done, you ca share your strengths results on your LinkedIn profile, or you can download a pdf summary to share with your current supervisor or on future job interviews.

Developed by Red Bull and an expert team of psychology professors, Wingfinder focuses on your strengths, the things that you’re naturally inclined to be good at, and gives you the tools and coaching to be even better. Your strengths are assessed according to four key areas: Creativity, Thinking, Drive and Connections. These areas are found to be more influential than any others for success in knowledge-based jobs. Contained within these four areas are 25 individual strengths. Wingfinder

Mike Rowe, host and creator of Discover Channel’s “Dirty Jobs” show, helped create this site to help beginners discover their ideal first jobs, and to help others who want to change careers. It’s fun to explore the free resources at this site.

This is more a personality quiz based on Jung and the Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory. You’ll get a general description of yourself. But you’ll have to pay for the more in-depth report. You can avoid that by going to Humanetrics’ detailed personality quiz and analysis. Once you’ve taken the test, you’ll have access to 4 free reports for developing self-growth, your career, team development, and pre-employment screening (if you’re a business owner), or even if you are outsourcing and want to pre-screen your contractors.

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/free-strength-test/feed/04306TWAP50: 23 Truths I Learned From Social Skills Traininghttp://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/thrive-with-aspergers-podcast/truths-learned-social-skills-training/
http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/thrive-with-aspergers-podcast/truths-learned-social-skills-training/#respondTue, 29 Nov 2016 13:00:52 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=4297Today’s blog post and podcast interview is features Alix Generous. Here’s her bio, from Aspergers 101, where she is a regular contributor: Alix’s childhood was hindered by undiagnosed Aspergers until she learned to harness her gifts. Now, at 21 years old, she has already done what most people can only hope to do in their […]

Here’s her bio, from Aspergers 101, where she is a regular contributor:

Alix’s childhood was hindered by undiagnosed Aspergers until she learned to harness her gifts. Now, at 21 years old, she has already done what most people can only hope to do in their lives; speak to the UN, make a major scientific contribution, give a TED talk, and travel the world. Alix was misdiagnosed as a child. Told she was strickened with a plethora of mental illnesses and learning disabilities, she spent years desperately seeking answers until she found the right kind of help that enabled her to flourish; piano playing, composing, ballet and science. Alix is an undergraduate student in Vermont working toward a degree in neuroscience. She is also currently working on several research projects studying autism and schizophrenia. She utilizes the college learning disabilities accommodation program and now lives comfortably with her challenges. Aspergers101 is thrilled to offer you the insights and brilliance of Alix!

Take it away, Alix!

When I was diagnosed with Aspergers, my parents enrolled me in 48 hours a week of social skills and coping mechanism training. That was 10 years ago. These are 23 friendly suggestions I still find to be true and carry with me today.

Never follow advice that you intend to carry out by hurting another living being.

Find what you love and pursue it even if it means working twice as hard in other areas of your life in order to do so. It can be one thing or it can be many. Obsessions and interests can lead to successful careers. Additionally, if you’re interested in a task you’ll do better at it.

Following blind happiness is a better decision than choosing certain unhappiness, as long as you apply appropriate practical skills and common sense (which can be learned in a Google search). No matter where you are and what situation you may be in, this isn’t your parent’s, boss, or teacher’s life, it’s your own. With the accumulation of knowledge and self discovery you can make choices that will shape the life you want. If you want to be a scientist, do what you need to in order to make that happen. That path is not exactly linear, you might have to do things differently than others, but that doesn’t make it bad or wrong to pursue. I had an incredible amount of difficulty socially when I started college in Charleston, SC. It was the weirdest feeling because I had wonderful friends there as well as great education and academic support. It never made sense why I was unhappy there but the moment I moved up to Boston 2 years ago, the unhappiness slipped away. Against the advice of my family, I drove to Boston, found an apartment, and an internship in one weekend, and met the love of my life. This move was all based on the feeling that Boston was the place I needed to be. I fit in well because I could talk to people about quantum physics and current issues, and have people eagerly teach me more than I could possibly understand, rather than think I’m weird.

If one way doesn’t work, don’t linger on the frustration of a broken road. Find a better way.

Study with people who are smarter than you and sit next to the nicest person in class.

A great idea implemented in an effective way will always trump prestige and superficial qualities that seem out of reach for those on the spectrum. Your mind is an asset, and if you use it properly without shame or pride, you can change the world.

The best way to figure out whether someone is manipulating you or helping you is to ask yourself: Do they want something from me? People can only manipulate you if you have something they want. Special educators sometimes neglect the needs of high-functioning autism in order to retain disability funds.

Finding who you are is a continuous journey, not a specific event that happens. It frustrates me how adolescence is deemed a time of searching for identity, because it implies that becoming an adult means you know every aspect of who you are. That’s a bunch of Bologna. I’ve met people of all ages who vary in behavioral patterns and world views. Accept, understand, and utilize your strengths as they are at this moment, and use a growth mindset to improve yourself.

The easiest way to interact with someone who thinks and feel differently then you do is to ask them questions.

In a debate, argument, or conflict, always validate the opposing persons view before stating your own view.

When in doubt, Google. When googling, question the reliability and truth of everything. Look at the people who make claims, and ask yourself if they have a sufficient amount of knowledge to make such a claim. The more proactive you are in your education, the less you have to rely on others for answers. You can find all laws, licenses, addresses, and criminal records within a simple click. This is something you should do in regards to everyone involved in providing accommodations for you such as counselors, doctors, and tutors.

Social media is not a substitute for in person interaction. Social skills like table manners or looking someone in the eye when you shake their hand are invaluable.

Don’t take advice from hypocrites. For example, don’t take relationship and marriage advice from someone whose had 3 marriages end in divorce.

Vaccines do not cause autism. This study was published by a scientist who was jaded by his funding sources, and falsified his data in order to get published. The journal that published his research revoked the paper, and denounced its validity after learning the truth of his research methods.

Firm and non-flexible opinions stunt intellectual growth and stifle your own truth. Research all sides of one issue before deciding for yourself.

Make choices that bring you closer to your goals, not based simply on what you feel. Mastering this habit will help you overcome lethargy, anhedonia, and other symptoms of depression and social anxiety associated with Aspergers.

People are just people. No matter what it may seem, the most seemingly superficial or flawless of individuals have imperfections and insecurities. The success of a person is determined by how they deal with their imperfections and insecurities, not the existence of them. Everyone has their weaknesses, some people are just better at hiding it than others.

The energy you put in will be returned to you. Say positive things to yourself and surround yourself with positive people even if you don’t feel it, because it will make your surroundings positive and supportive to who you are. You might have to boot out some psycho family members or close friends if they are creating more negative emotions than positive, but trust me it’s worth it. Be brave, set those boundaries so you and others can be inspired to improve.

The easiest way to affect an individual’s first impression of you is with make up, hair, clothes,and body posture. Changing facial expression, tone, and word choice take a lot more work. Hair and makeup never came naturally to me and I didn’t start learning how to use them until I went to college. Pinterest has lots of simple tutorials. Because of sensory issues, I only wear makeup for special events.

People are not divided into two categories of “weird” and “normal”. Everyone exists on a spectrum.

Go out of your way to figure out what aspects of yourself you can improve on, and which ones you can’t. Love every part of yourself either way.

There is never any need to be mean. Being nice does not equate to being a pushover and you can always present constructive criticism in a respectful manner.

Keep firm boundaries in the work place. Your personal and private life are better left separate. If you don’t believe me, try bringing up your aunt’s kidney stone as a casual conversation and tell me how it goes.

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/thrive-with-aspergers-podcast/truths-learned-social-skills-training/feed/0Today’s blog post and podcast interview is features Alix Generous. Here’s her bio, from Aspergers 101, where she is a regular contributor: Alix’s childhood was hindered by undiagnosed Aspergers until she learned to harness her gifts. Now,

Here’s her bio, from Aspergers 101, where she is a regular contributor:
Alix’s childhood was hindered by undiagnosed Aspergers until she learned to harness her gifts. Now, at 21 years old, she has already done what most people can only hope to do in their lives; speak to the UN, make a major scientific contribution, give a TED talk, and travel the world. Alix was misdiagnosed as a child. Told she was strickened with a plethora of mental illnesses and learning disabilities, she spent years desperately seeking answers until she found the right kind of help that enabled her to flourish; piano playing, composing, ballet and science. Alix is an undergraduate student in Vermont working toward a degree in neuroscience. She is also currently working on several research projects studying autism and schizophrenia. She utilizes the college learning disabilities accommodation program and now lives comfortably with her challenges. Aspergers101 is thrilled to offer you the insights and brilliance of Alix!
Take it away, Alix!
When I was diagnosed with Aspergers, my parents enrolled me in 48 hours a week of social skills and coping mechanism training. That was 10 years ago. These are 23 friendly suggestions I still find to be true and carry with me today.

* Never follow advice that you intend to carry out by hurting another living being.
* Find what you love and pursue it even if it means working twice as hard in other areas of your life in order to do so. It can be one thing or it can be many. Obsessions and interests can lead to successful careers. Additionally, if you’re interested in a task you’ll do better at it.
* Following blind happiness is a better decision than choosing certain unhappiness, as long as you apply appropriate practical skills and common sense (which can be learned in a Google search). No matter where you are and what situation you may be in, this isn’t your parent’s, boss, or teacher’s life, it’s your own. With the accumulation of knowledge and self discovery you can make choices that will shape the life you want. If you want to be a scientist, do what you need to in order to make that happen. That path is not exactly linear, you might have to do things differently than others, but that doesn’t make it bad or wrong to pursue. I had an incredible amount of difficulty socially when I started college in Charleston, SC. It was the weirdest feeling because I had wonderful friends there as well as great education and academic support. It never made sense why I was unhappy there but the moment I moved up to Boston 2 years ago, the unhappiness slipped away. Against the advice of my family, I drove to Boston, found an apartment, and an internship in one weekend, and met the love of my life. This move was all based on the feeling that Boston was the place I needed to be. I fit in well because I could talk to people about quantum physics and current issues, and have people eagerly teach me more than I could possibly understand, rather than think I’m weird.
* If one way doesn’t work, don’t linger on the frustration of a broken road. Find a better way.
* Study with people who are smarter than you and sit next to the nicest person in class.
* A great idea implemented in an effective way will always trump prestige and superficial qualities that seem out of reach for those on the spectrum.]]>Stephen Borgman: Podcaster, Blogger, Therapistclean43:0042976 Essential Autism Quotes About Meltdowns: Deliveredhttp://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/6-autism-quotes-about-meltdowns/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/6-autism-quotes-about-meltdowns/#commentsMon, 21 Nov 2016 13:00:48 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=3953Autism Quotes From Autistics and Aspergians Its frustrating, as a parent, to receive advice from well-meaning friends who don’t have kids. Likewise, it may be frustrating for you to receive advice from “experts” who aren’t autistic. As well-meaning as we may be, therapists and other professionals who are non-autistic can never truly understand what an […]

3. The “Cause” of Meltdowns

It might not be one thing, but a result of a buildup of stress and sensory overload over time. Yes you should look to see if anything has changed recently but what is probably needed is peace and quiet, sleep, hyper focusing on your special interests and some intensive stimming. (underline is mine)

4. Understand and Supporting A Loved One During A Meltdown

When your Aspie is having a meltdown, try to help if you still can. Otherwise let them be, let it out, let the pressure rip through the air instead of through your aspie’s feelings and defenses – and then through yours. Let the meltdown do what it is designed to do, which is to reset the balance. (underline mine).

6. On “Accepting” Meltdowns

The challenge for me is in those intervals between the good and good, where the scary and terrible leaks through. I tend to panic and think of all the worst-case scenarios, and thusly when he is ‘spazzing’ out, my foundation shakes and I am not sure where to stand or what to focus on. It’s not easy. Of course it’s not easy.

But the older I get the more I realize it’s time to stop chasing ‘normal’ and ‘easy’ and ‘trouble-free.’ I am learning to instead embrace the anomalies of life, to expect the unexpected, to ease into the uneasy, and to believe the unbelievable. That’s just life. And so it goes and goes and goes.

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/6-autism-quotes-about-meltdowns/feed/33953TWAP049: Living Well On The Spectrumhttp://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/living-well-on-the-spectrum/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/living-well-on-the-spectrum/#commentsTue, 15 Nov 2016 12:51:25 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=4285Do you ever get tired of hearing that you’ve got “symptoms” or that you’ve got a “disorder”? Dr. Valerie Gaus, PhD, approaches the spectrum as a scientist practitioner. She talks about strengths and differences, not symptoms or disorders, as the key to living well on the spectrum. That’s why I’m excited to have her on the […]

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/living-well-on-the-spectrum/feed/2An Interview with Dr. Valerie Gaus, PhD
Dr. Valerie Gaus, PhD, approaches the spectrum as a scientist practitioner.
She talks about strengths and differences, not symptoms or disorders, as the key to living well on the spectrum.
That’s why I’m excited to have her on the show.
I’ve referenced both of her books extensively as I work with autistics and Aspergians.
Show Highlights

Dr. Gaus’ roundabout path to working with autistics and AspergiansEmpathy – how does it work for the spectrum?
Identifying emotions
The role of positive psychology in addressing the challenges of living on the spectrum
How the autism brain is different, not deficient
The importance of being willing to ask for help
Autism differences – social, thinking, emotional, sensory/movement

Maybe you’re a parent whose child has “melted down”.
Maybe you’re a teacher or therapist who works with clients in the midst of meltdowns.
Or, maybe you yourself experience meltdowns.

I’m not autistic.

So I’ve read some accounts told firsthand.

You get overloaded. And then your system “blows” You may swear and scream uncontrollably. You lose perspective of what’s going on with others and what’s going on with you. You may run out of the house. In extreme situations you may run into the road, risking being run over. It’s worse if it happens in a public place. People stare. People judge.

If you’re a parent or a loved one, you may dread the meltdowns. You never know when it’s coming. It could be the seemingly smallest thing. And the meltdown seems to have a life of it’s own. It’s scary, unsettling, and traumatic, both to you and to your loved one.

Since meltdowns can be so intense and severe, it’s important that you be talking about them to loved ones and to other people you know.

Why?

1. Talk About Autism Meltdowns To Increase Awareness.

We fear what we do not know.

Years ago, I was coming out of a grocery store with my wife. We saw a man sitting on the curb, staring out to space, and sweating profusely.

We knew something was wrong, but we had no idea what exactly was wrong.

Fortunately, there was a nurse standing nearby who recognized the signs and symptoms of a stroke. She immediately called 911, thereby perhaps saving his life!

In the same way, educating ourselves, our loved ones, and others about autism meltdowns increases awareness of what they are and what can be done to neutralize the situation.

For example, years ago, before I had ever heard of autism, if I had seen an autistic child “melting down” in a grocery store, I would have been pretty judgmental.

“Can’t that parent control their kid?” or “What a spoiled kid!”

Number one, years ago I was not a parent, and had no clue what it’s like to deal with any kind of child, autistic or non-autistic.

Number two, I didn’t know what sensory overload is like.

After years of studying and reading about autism, and having a son on the spectrum, I know a lot more and I would never make the same judgment about an autistic child having a meltdown in a grocery store.

But it takes lots of education.

So please continue to talk about autism meltdowns and educate yourself and your loved ones.

Here’s an easy way to explain autism meltdowns to others, courtesy of Judy Endow.

3. Talk About Autism Meltdowns To Dispel Fear, Guilt, and Shame

When Kanner first studied autism, he coined the term “refrigerator mother” as his theory for what “causes” autism.

He thought that mothers were not showing enough emotional care and warmth to their child, and thus “creating” autism in their child.

Can you imagine the fear, guilt, and shame mothers must have felt in the 1940’s.

Autism was seen as a disease to be cured. So both parents and kids were victims of this theory.

In the same way, unless we talk about autism meltdowns: what they are, what they look like, and the causes, as part of sensory overload, and not the fault of the child or parent, people may judge autistics without compunction.

4. Talk About Autism Meltdowns To Decrease Abuse

Parents need to understand meltdowns, so that they don’t punish their kids inappropriately.

In this article, Mark covers common triggers for meltdowns, and prevention strategies.

It’s equally important to train our children to understand what meltdowns are, and how to take control of them.

When autistic children and adults don’t understand their meltdowns, and coping skills to deal with them, a cycle of violence can occur in homes and with partners.

This article, from theneurotypical.com, talks about the cycle of rage that can develop in a family.

I’m not quite sure what to think about this article. On the one hand, the rage seems very real. On the other hand, I’ve heard accounts from both autistics and non-autistics of anger and violence coming from both parents and children.

The key point is that, unless we talk about and educate ourselves about meltdowns, we can’t learn to prevent (as much as possible) and cope with them.

5. Talking About Autism Meltdowns Increases Coping Skills

The more you, as a parent, learn about autism meltdowns, the better you’ll be able to manage your child’s unexpected meltdowns and prevent future ones.

The more you, as an adult, talk and learn about autism meltdowns, the better you’ll be able to navigate sensory difficulties, environmental challenges, and your own emotional landscape.

Growth begins with self-awareness.

Summary:

We need to be talking about autism meltdowns:

To increase awareness;

To break wrong autism stereotypes;

To dispel fear, guilt, and shame;

To decrease abuse;

And to increase coping skills.

I’d like to hear from you: why do you think we need to be talking about autism meltdowns?

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/talk-about-autism-meltdowns/feed/53934TWAP048: You Need Your Job Counseling Questions Answeredhttp://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/job-counseling-answers/
http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/job-counseling-answers/#respondTue, 01 Nov 2016 12:00:52 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=4278Job counseling. It’s one of the most pressing topics for spectrum adults. One of the best parts of my role here at Thrive with Aspergers is talking to experts from all walks of life. In this episode, I talked to Barbara Bissonnette from Forward Motion Coaching about your questions. Barbara joined the Thrive with Aspergers podcast […]

Barbara joined the Thrive with Aspergers podcast in Episode 5, and she’s back to give us more advice!

Job Counseling Questions You Asked: And Barbara Answered

1. The statistics indicate that roughly 80% of autistics (people with autism, if you prefer – I don’t) are unemployed or underemployed. I wonder what the stats would really be, as most of us who function well enough to hold a job are not “affected enough” by autism to have been diagnosed (at all, or until later in life, or by self-diagnosis only). Therefore, we’ve been excluded from these statistics. Especially since Aspergers was not a recognized diagnosis until 1993 (I think), and was not absorbed into the autism diagnosis until the DSM-5 came out in 2013.

2.My kiddo is only 8 years old so we do have a ways to go before worrying about the real world stuff like how he will handle the ups and downs of a job but this is a topic that does interest me. I am curious if there is any types of training courses for people with Autism to help them adjust to the environments that they will be introduced to when entering into the work force? Are there certain jobs that prove to be more difficult for people who are on the spectrum? If so, should these types of jobs be avoided for first timers or would it be helpful to show them how to adapted and overcome some of the struggles in these particular careers?

3.With regard to the session on Aspergers and employment, I am really interested in tips on how to deal with a boss who is a bully. I know that changing jobs would be an obvious answer, but this isn’t really a viable option for me right now and, apart from my difficult boss, my job is not all that bad. I work part-time in a records management role, which in some ways is ideal for my obsession for detail, although there are other obsessions such as writing for a living that I’d rather be working in (but that is a work in progress!) However, I experience ongoing anxiety about what my boss is going to find wrong with me next, which colours every day of my work in this job. Add that to the over-stimulation of working in an office and I am generally pretty exhausted by the end of the week, even though I’ve only spent 3 8-hour days at the job. I don’t want to spend the rest of my working life in this job and also have a part-time business teaching Pilates (which I love but don’t want to do full-time). I am looking at my future work options and how to get there but in the meantime, I really need to make this job work for me as it is the main source of income for me and my husband and I can’t afford to just leave it.

4.Do you recommend that someone tell their employer they have been told by their therapist they have Aspergers? My concern is that my employer could potentially use it against me.

5.It seems my NT co-workers are much more proficient than I at playing the office politics. I generally ignore the politics and just focus on doing my work with excellence. However, I have found that this puts me at a disadvantage at times as I am not brought into the “inner circle” as often as my NT co-workers. What is the best way to deal with this situation?

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/adults-with-aspergers/job-counseling-answers/feed/0In this episode, Aspergers employment expert Barbara Bissonnette answers questions about self-disclosure, accommodations, office politics and much much more.
One of the best parts of my role here at Thrive with Aspergers is talking to experts from all walks of life.
In this episode, I talked to Barbara Bissonnette from Forward Motion Coaching about your questions.
Barbara joined the Thrive with Aspergers podcast in Episode 5, and she’s back to give us more advice!
Job Counseling Questions You Asked: And Barbara Answered
1. The statistics indicate that roughly 80% of autistics (people with autism, if you prefer – I don’t) are unemployed or underemployed. I wonder what the stats would really be, as most of us who function well enough to hold a job are not “affected enough” by autism to have been diagnosed (at all, or until later in life, or by self-diagnosis only). Therefore, we’ve been excluded from these statistics. Especially since Aspergers was not a recognized diagnosis until 1993 (I think), and was not absorbed into the autism diagnosis until the DSM-5 came out in 2013.
2. My kiddo is only 8 years old so we do have a ways to go before worrying about the real world stuff like how he will handle the ups and downs of a job but this is a topic that does interest me. I am curious if there is any types of training courses for people with Autism to help them adjust to the environments that they will be introduced to when entering into the work force? Are there certain jobs that prove to be more difficult for people who are on the spectrum? If so, should these types of jobs be avoided for first timers or would it be helpful to show them how to adapted and overcome some of the struggles in these particular careers?
3. With regard to the session on Aspergers and employment, I am really interested in tips on how to deal with a boss who is a bully. I know that changing jobs would be an obvious answer, but this isn’t really a viable option for me right now and, apart from my difficult boss, my job is not all that bad. I work part-time in a records management role, which in some ways is ideal for my obsession for detail, although there are other obsessions such as writing for a living that I’d rather be working in (but that is a work in progress!) However, I experience ongoing anxiety about what my boss is going to find wrong with me next, which colours every day of my work in this job. Add that to the over-stimulation of working in an office and I am generally pretty exhausted by the end of the week, even though I’ve only spent 3 8-hour days at the job. I don’t want to spend the rest of my working life in this job and also have a part-time business teaching Pilates (which I love but don’t want to do full-time). I am looking at my future work options and how to get there but in the meantime, I really need to make this job work for me as it is the main source of income for me and my husband and I can’t afford to just leave it.
4. Do you recommend that someone tell their employer they have been told by their therapist they have Aspergers? My concern is that my employer could potentially use it against me.
5. It seems my NT co-workers are much more proficient than I at playing the office politics. I generally ignore the politics and just focus on doing my work with excellence. However, I have found that this puts me at a disadvantage at times as I am not brought into the “inne...]]>Stephen Borgman: Therapist, Podcaster, Connectorclean42:254278TWAP047: An Expert Tells You About Adult Autism Diagnosishttp://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/autism-diagnosis/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/autism-diagnosis/#respondTue, 25 Oct 2016 12:00:56 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=4273Adult Autism Diagnosis: Your Questions Answered Do you want to take the confusion out of understanding adult autism diagnosis? In this episode, Dr. Rachel Loftin answers your questions (submitted by many of you) about this interesting topic. Dr. Rachel Loftin, PhD Website: Video Introduction Bio: Rachel Loftin, PhD AARTS Center: Autism Assessment, Research, and Treatment […]

Your Questions (And More):

Is the criteria for adult Aspergers significantly different from the criteria for children?

Has anything more been published on specific differences in Aspergers in females? Some excellent websites are advocating research to expand understanding of the somewhat DIFFERENT TRAITS that appear among women. I recently met a woman who believes she has Aspergers, but that she is ‘flaying under the radar’ due to the emphasis on male diagnosis AND to the somewhat different manner in which Aspergers may be expressed in (for example) a highly creative woman (eg, a writer or artist).

Why is that in the UK there are so many social services available to adults with Autism as opposed to the US? It seems as if as soon as an autistic person becomes an adult they are left to wander and try to navigate this strange world on their own.

Why aren’t primary doctors trained to pick up on autistic traits in adults to help with guidance to proper assessment and diagnoses? I have even come across individuals who label themselves as “self-diagnosed aspies” This term should not exist, there has to be professionals to pick up and diagnose traits to further send their clients to specialists for thorough testing. I don’t walk around saying that I have self diagnosed myself with a brain tumor just because I may have some similarities or feelings as a properly diagnosed person with a brain tumor. No brain scans were conducted to show the deviation from a normal brain that a neurologist would pursue to prove the presence of a tumor or an fMRI brain scan to prove autism. Or are there just a lot of misdiagnosed beings out there as well as many people that just don’t bother going to specialists who may not even conduct extensive testing due to the costs involved? Then again, some adults with autism are well known to succeed in passing for “normal” to fit in.

What’s with the delay in professionals determining genetic testing for Autism-Asperger’s. My genetic testing was just to rule out fragile-x but come on why are we so slow in determining which gene or sets of genes are responsible for this? You need more hyper focused people in the labs to move this world positively forward at a much faster pace. Then again perhaps there is and I have not done a thorough search on PubMed to adequately research this.

How does one deal with a person (especially a close friend, a brother, or even a spouse) who is extremely successful from a professional standpoint, but displays mind-blindness, obsessions with routine and with saving money,, an extreme need for a particular type of order, shocking lack of common sense in some basic family and financial matters, avoidance of making eye contact, social awkwardness and some others symptoms that may include some traits of Aspergers? I’m a former educator and am in touch with a number of people who would like to help specific persons seek diagnosis (whether or not the problem is partly or completely or not at all associated with Aspergers).

You’ll Also Learn:

What kind of online quiz can be used to screen for possible autism traits

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/autism-diagnosis/feed/0Adult Autism Diagnosis: Your Questions Answered Do you want to take the confusion out of understanding adult autism diagnosis? In this episode, Dr. Rachel Loftin answers your questions (submitted by many of you) about this interesting topic. Dr.
Do you want to take the confusion out of understanding adult autism diagnosis?
In this episode, Dr. Rachel Loftin answers your questions (submitted by many of you) about this interesting topic.
Dr. Rachel Loftin, PhD
Website: Video Introduction
Bio: Rachel Loftin, PhD
AARTS Center: Autism Assessment, Research, and Treatment Services at Rush University Medical Center.
Twitter: RachelLoftinPhD
Your Questions (And More):

Is the criteria for adult Aspergers significantly different from the criteria for children?
Has anything more been published on specific differences in Aspergers in females? Some excellent websites are advocating research to expand understanding of the somewhat DIFFERENT TRAITS that appear among women. I recently met a woman who believes she has Aspergers, but that she is ‘flaying under the radar’ due to the emphasis on male diagnosis AND to the somewhat different manner in which Aspergers may be expressed in (for example) a highly creative woman (eg, a writer or artist).
* Why is that in the UK there are so many social services available to adults with Autism as opposed to the US? It seems as if as soon as an autistic person becomes an adult they are left to wander and try to navigate this strange world on their own.
Why aren’t primary doctors trained to pick up on autistic traits in adults to help with guidance to proper assessment and diagnoses? I have even come across individuals who label themselves as “self-diagnosed aspies” This term should not exist, there has to be professionals to pick up and diagnose traits to further send their clients to specialists for thorough testing. I don’t walk around saying that I have self diagnosed myself with a brain tumor just because I may have some similarities or feelings as a properly diagnosed person with a brain tumor. No brain scans were conducted to show the deviation from a normal brain that a neurologist would pursue to prove the presence of a tumor or an fMRI brain scan to prove autism. Or are there just a lot of misdiagnosed beings out there as well as many people that just don’t bother going to specialists who may not even conduct extensive testing due to the costs involved? Then again, some adults with autism are well known to succeed in passing for “normal” to fit in.
What’s with the delay in professionals determining genetic testing for Autism-Asperger’s. My genetic testing was just to rule out fragile-x but come on why are we so slow in determining which gene or sets of genes are responsible for this? You need more hyper focused people in the labs to move this world positively forward at a much faster pace. Then again perhaps there is and I have not done a thorough search on PubMed to adequately research this.
How does one deal with a person (especially a close friend, a brother, or even a spouse) who is extremely successful from a professional standpoint, but displays mind-blindness, obsessions with routine and with saving money,, an extreme need for a particular type of order, shocking lack of common sense in some basic family and financial matters, avoidance of making eye contact, social awkwardness and some others symptoms that may include some traits of Aspergers? I’m a former educator and am in touch with a number of people who would like to help specific persons seek diagnosis (whether or not the problem is partly or completely or not at all associated with Aspergers).]]>Steve Borgman: Blogger, Therapist, Podcasterclean47:314273Aspergers Personal Hygiene Care: Who Gives a Care?http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/aspergers-personal-hygiene-care/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/aspergers-personal-hygiene-care/#commentsMon, 17 Oct 2016 19:30:17 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=1167Who Gives a Care About Aspergers Personal Hygiene Care? A lot of people! People with Aspergers are logical. And I’ve read different hygiene and grooming opinions in some Aspie forums. Here’s what some have said: “If it doesn’t look dirty or smell dirty, it’s not dirty, so cleaning would be a waste of time.” “Showering […]

Who Gives a Care About Aspergers Personal Hygiene Care?

And I’ve read different hygiene and grooming opinions in some Aspie forums.

Here’s what some have said:

“If it doesn’t look dirty or smell dirty, it’s not dirty, so cleaning would be a waste of time.”

“Showering is boring and unimportant.”

“The [hygiene] standards of modern Western society are ridiculous.”

But the truth is, society has its hidden curriculum. If you have bad body odor, unkempt hair, and bizarre clothes, people are going to judge you. They’ll reject you and stay away from you.

Why is Aspergers Personal Hygiene So Challenging?

I’ve read a couple of ideas about why Aspies don’t care for hygiene. People with Aspergers are logical: and it seems doesn’t make sense to them, logically, why people are so consumed with grooming and hygiene. Then, there are sensory issues involved with bathing and grooming. Brushing teeth can be uncomfortable and even painful. Showering can be uncomfortable. Others don’t like the feeling of bathing because it feels like they are sitting in their own filth.

What are the Payoffs of Tending to Personal Hygiene?

I’ve shared, in the four steps of communication, that others’ opinions, thoughts, and feelings about you do matter. John Elder Robison, author of Be Different, discovered that, once he got a haircut and wore semi-clean clothes, people started noticing him and talking to him. People want a minimum of cleanliness and grooming when they meet someone. It’s one more way to form relationships. It’s one more way to support relationships.

Advice from an Aspie to an Aspie

Here’s some logical advice from one Aspie who, herself, agrees that grooming and personal hygiene are bothersome, to another Aspie, who wanted nothing to do with changing his ways.

Yes, the standards of modern Western society really are ridiculous. It’s not just you and me that think so. Conservationists and environmentalists and such carp about this all the time. Living in spotless, scentless (or artificially scented) splendor is something that was fabricated by advertising agencies to sell appliances and products (half a dozen different washes– and don’t even get me started on douche and “feminine deodorant spray”).

And people are such insecure, paranoid, stupid herd animals that it’s worked. Very well. All that product just absolutely flies off the shelves.

And, therefore…

…Yes, if you want to be accepted (or really more than grudgingly, judgingly, and barely tolerated), you really do have to do it.

You don’t have to buy all the products, and spend hordes of time and money on hairstyles and such. I shave my armpits, but not my legs (I’m female, btw). Haven’t done it in over a decade, ’cause it takes half an hour and makes me itch like mad. I used to wear long pants or long skirts at all times. I wear whatever I want now. People make fun, but that’s really all they can do.

Bad news: You do have to wash your focal points and personal bits– face, armpits, butt crack, and gentials– every stupid stinking day (or at least every stupid stinking day that you go out in public).

Good news: All you have to use is soap and water. And it takes five minutes.

Bad news: You really do have to shower three or four times a week (more if you do dirty or sweaty stuff).

Good news: You can take a perfectly acceptable shower in five to ten minutes. Get in, get wet, wash your hair, wash your personal bits, rinse, turn off the water, get out. With multiple kids and time consuming special interests, I’ve got this down to an art.

Bad news: You really do have to brush your teeth twice a day, pretty much every day. And flossing really would be a good idea. I was too depressed to care for a few years, and I hate flossing, and I’m 34 with a mouthful of shitty teeth to prove it. I’ll be wearing dentures by the time I’m 50. Suckage.

Good news: The brushing thing takes five minutes. Total. Two in the morning, two at night, and a minute spent wetting and rinsing the toothbrush, getting it out and putting it away, applying toothpaste and wiping the spots off of the mirror.

You’re up to fifteen minutes a day. You waste more time than that thinking about what you want to eat– which you can do while you’re washing.

Bad news: I think twice is about the limit for getting away with wearing street clothes. Whatever you lay around in– hey, that’s up to you. What you wear out in public, you can probably wear twice or at the most three times if you’re just going out for little things (trips to the store or appointments, as opposed to hikes or runs or a job). And you have to change your underwear every day. Our current culture finds sweat and crotch smell to be inordinately offensive.

Worse news: Unless you have a lot of clothes, this means doing laundry about once a week (for one person).

Good news: Our culture has washers and dryers. If you have them at home, be really really thankful. If you have an on-site coin-op laundry, be thankful. If you have to travel to the laundromat, get a couple of good clothes baskets or a really sturdy cloth sack and a portable activity you enjoy. At least you’re not doing it on a washboard, right???

Yeah– the standards suck. I think they’re frivolous and stupid. You think they’re frivolous and stupid. A lot of people agree with us. When we don’t have the luxuries of indoor plumbing and labor-saving appliances (or water’s so severely rationed that you’re not allowed to do it or it’s prohibitively expensive), the vast majority of people will agree with us and the standards will change.

But right now they are what they are. We can either live with them (and within them) or pay the price.

Here’s an affiliate resource I support:

In this book, an experienced, certified teacher and speech-language pathologist has written this book to offer the necessary information on skills students need to live safe, healthy lives as independently as they are physically and mentally capable of living.

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/aspergers-personal-hygiene-care/feed/31167Diagnosing Autism and Aspergers in Adultshttp://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/diagnosing-autism-in-adults/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/diagnosing-autism-in-adults/#commentsTue, 11 Oct 2016 12:00:19 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=1370Autism is not a puzzle, nor a disease. Autism is a challenge but certainly not a devastating one.Autism is about having a pure heart and being very sensitive… It is about finding a way to survive in an overwhelming, confusing world… It is about developing differently, in a different pace and with different leaps. Autistic […]

Autism is not a puzzle, nor a disease. Autism is a challenge but certainly not a devastating one.Autism is about having a pure heart and being very sensitive… It is about finding a way to survive in an overwhelming, confusing world… It is about developing differently, in a different pace and with different leaps. Autistic beings develop and bloom if their spirits, talents and self-esteem are not destroyed by bullies, prejudice, ‘doggie-training’, and being forced to be ‘normal’. Trisha Van Berkel, Odd One Out Blog

Diagnosing Autism In Adults: How Does It Work?

I remember driving downtown Chicago in my younger years. I grew up in Brazil, South America, so I wasn’t too comfortable getting around the city.

I was trying to visit a friend. After a couple hours of driving, I finally stopped to ask for directions. The street I was trying to find ran North-South in my suburb, but East-West in the city!

I also recall driving down a one way street once, not realizing anything was wrong until the drivers coming at me started honking their horns!

It’s a different feeling altogether when I drive with a GPS. The device tells me where I am, and how to get to where I’m going.

A diagnosis of autism and/or Asperger’s is like having a GPS to find your destination. It can help you make sense of yourself and your experience.

A colleague in the counseling field recently asked me if I know of any adult screening/questionnaires for Aspergers.

Screening Tools: Before Getting an “Official” Diagnosis

As pointed out in Real Age, a screening tool is used on someone who has never considered having a specific condition. For example, let’s say you’ve never had a heart condition. A cholesterol screening would be one way to determine whether you may have that condition. A diagnostic tool, on the other hand, is used to confirm a suspected condition once initial testing has revealed its possibility.

Psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues at Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre have created the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, or AQ, as a measure of the extent of autistic traits in adults. In the first major trial using the test, the average score in the control group was 16.4. Eighty percent of those diagnosed with autism or a related disorder scored 32 or higher.The test is not a means for making a diagnosis, however, and many who score above 32 and even meet the diagnostic criteria for mild autism or Asperger’s report no difficulty functioning in their everyday lives.

Diagnostic Tests

Autism Diagnostic Observations Schedule

This test is also known by the abbreviation ADOS. This test may be less sensitive to symptoms in more cognitively able people. Clinicians must be trained extensively with this specific tool to administer it competently

Gilliam Asperger’s Disorder Scale

This is a questionnaire for caregivers of people between 3-22 years of age. The psychometric properties of the test are reported in a manual from a study done on 371 people. Unfortunately, the questionnaire was not tested on people older than 22. However, this scale can help clinicians structure inquiries about various symptoms of AS across four domains: social interaction, restricted patterns of behavior, cognitive patterns, and pragmatic skills.

Asperger Syndrome Diagnostic Scale

This diagnostic tool is a questionnaire for caregivers of people between 5-18 years of age. It has not been tested on large samples. Clinicians should not use this scale for adults over 18 years.

Australian Scale For Asperger’s Syndrome

This scale was only tested on clients between 3-19. The caregivers fill it out.

Autism Spectrum Quotient

The Autism Spectrum Quotient is a self-report questionnaire, to be used only with people of intellectual and verbal ability in the average to above-average range.

Currently, Asperger’s is similar to autism with challenges in social interaction, and restricted or repetitive interests or behavior; however, it differs from other autism spectrum conditions in that there is no general delay in language or cognitive impairment.

The criteria for diagnosing Asperger’s can vary slightly between the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), and the World Health Organization ICD-10. There are not a lot of standardized screening tools for Aspergers, and physicians and other health professionals often rely on specific behaviors to make a diagnosis [for example, abnormal eye contact, aloofness, failure to respond when called by name, failure to use gestures to point or show, lack of interactive play with others, and a lack of interest in peers.]

Some have questioned how reliable different assessments can be. [Please read the Wikipedia article for more detail].

Assessing adults is different than assessing children. For example, usually a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals observe a child across multiple settings. This is less possible with an adult.

Rather than attempt to rewrite the information, I’m including information about the procedure of the diagnosis from the Wikipedia article, diagnosis of Aspergers Sydnrome: [please see that article for the footnote sources in the quote]

A comprehensive evaluation includes neurological and genetic assessment, with in-depth cognitive and language testing to establish IQ and evaluate psychomotor function, verbal and nonverbal strengths and weaknesses, style of learning, and skills for independent living. An assessment of communication strengths and weaknesses includes the evaluation of nonverbal forms of communication (gaze and gestures); the use of non-literal language (metaphor, irony, absurdities and humor); patterns of speech inflection, stress and volume; pragmatics (turn-taking and sensitivity to verbal cues); and the content, clarity and coherence of conversation.[6] Testing may include an audiological referral to exclude hearing impairment. The determination of whether there is a family history of autism spectrum conditions is important.[10] A medical practitioner will diagnose on the basis of the test results and the child’s developmental history and current symptoms.[6] Because multiple domains of functioning are involved, a multidisciplinary team approach is critical;[3] an accurate assessment of the individual’s strengths and weaknesses is more useful than a diagnostic label.[9] Delayed or mistaken diagnosis is a serious problem that can be traumatic for individuals and families; diagnosis based solely on a neurological, speech and language, or educational attainment may yield only a partial diagnosis.[3]

Other Articles You May Enjoy:

Pursuing an autism diagnosis as an adult can be a bit confusing. And getting the diagnosis doesn’t change everything. You may, in fact, go through a lot of feelings and doubts once you receive the diagnosis. But I hope, in the end, it gives you some peace of mind.

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/diagnosing-autism-in-adults/feed/31370Famous People With Aspergers: Michael Burryhttp://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/famous-people-with-aspergers-michael-burry/
http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/famous-people-with-aspergers-michael-burry/#respondTue, 04 Oct 2016 12:00:29 +0000Stephen Borgmanhttp://www.myaspergers.net/?p=973“Aspergers came into my life when I was forty years old…as I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate how my differences have turned out to include gifts that have set me apart.” John Elder Robison, Be Different Background and Career Michael Burry had a sense of being different as he grew up. When […]

“Aspergers came into my life when I was forty years old…as I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate how my differences have turned out to include gifts that have set me apart.” John Elder Robison, Be Different

Background and Career

Michael Burry had a sense of being different as he grew up. When he was young, he developed cancer in one of his eyes, resulting in its removal.

Here are some quotes from a Vanity Fair article outlining some of the challenges he faced:

Eye Contact Difficulties

“It took all my energy to look someone in the eye,” he said. “If I am looking at you, that’s the one time I know I won’t be listening to you.”

Making Sense of Social Interactions

“He found it maddeningly difficult to read people’s nonverbal signals, and their verbal signals he often took more literally than they meant them. When trying his best, he was often at his worst.”

Friendships

“My nature is not to have friends,” he said. “I’m happy in my own head.”

Career and Success

Despite these challenges, Michael Burry persevered.

He attended Vanderbilt University, where he studied English, Economics, and Pre-Medicine.

After graduating from medical school, he got extra training in neurology at Stanford Hospital. As if this wasn’t enough, he became fascinated with the stock market during this time.

While working 12 hour shifts as a resident, he wrote his own stock market blog from midnight to 3 am. Corporations and independent investors started reading his blog and following his advice. This neurology resident, blogging during his ‘off hours’ amazed them all.

Dr. Michael Burry struggled with social interactions involved with patient care. His passion for numbers and analysis won out over his chosen career in medicine. So he decided to quit medicine and pursue his interests.

He started his own investment fund as a money manager. Over eight years, average U.S. stocks underperformed. But Dr. Burry’s fund made $100 million for him and $700 million for his investors during that time!

Michael’s ability to focus and analyze may have been offset by the stress of dealing with the investor relations side of his business. He eventually shut down his investing firm to focus on his own personal investments.

At age 35, Michael Burry found out about his own diagnosis of Aspergers after his 4 year old son was diagnosed with the same condition. He wasn’t happy about it. Just as John Elder Robison points out in his book, Be Different, Aspergers is often called a disorder. In John’s words,

…to some of us, the phrase ‘Asperger’s’ is misleading because it makes Asperger’s sound like a disease or an injury. You say, ‘I have a cold’ or ‘I’ve got a broken leg.’ Saying you ‘have’ something implies that it’s temporary and undesirable. Asperger’s isn’t like that. you’ve been Aspergian as long as you can remember, and you’ll be that way all your life. It’s a way of being, not a disease.

Eventually, he accepted his diagnosis. He met with a psychologist to better understand Aspergers as well as the impact it had on him and his family.

What We Can Learn From Michael Burry

In his book, Be Different, John Elder Robison shared some “secrets” to his success in life as an Aspergian. We can find these same success guidelines when we review Michael Burry’s life story.

Find Your Strengths and Interests

Everything begins with finding our particular strengths and talents. Or merely acknowledging them and accepting them.

Michael Burry happened to have interests that people were willing to pay for: medicine and numbers.

Parents, honor your child’s particular interests. You may not see how they have any value currently, but there may be parallel strengths and interests that will later pay off.

Find Real-World Applications for Your Special Skills

One of the keys for career success, whether as an entrepreneur or employee, is to find a) what we’re passionate about; b) what we’re good at; and c) how what we’re both passionate about and good at can help solve problems for people who are willing to pay for our solutions.

Michael Burry solved the problem of how to make money during a recession for thousands of investors. He was passionate about numbers and the stock market; he knew he was good at what he was doing; and there were corporations and private investors willing to pay a great deal of money for the skills he offered.

If you’re a teen, young adult, or mid life adult Aspie, I encourage you to visit my other site, Personal Success Factors, where I explore themes of Discovering Your talents and purpose; Differentiating Yourself; and Developing a Plan to live your purpose and talents out in the world.

Focus and Work Hard

One of the blessings of Aspergers tends to be an ability to focus very well on areas of interest. Michael Burry exemplifies the obsessiveness and hard work that result in success. His ability to pore over reams of research to extract his own personal strategies for investing resulted in financial prosperity.

Resolve

Again, the autism spectrum often blesses individuals with confidence in logic and their personal perspective on the world. They are not easily swayed by the court of public opinion. This ability to believe in their own point of view can pay off. Michael Burry adopted a contrarian view of value investing when no one else believed him; in fact, may investors revolted against his single minded pursuit of investments that scared them. But it resulted in a huge payoff. He credits his ability to form his own opinions to his Aspergian way of thinking. He had done the research, and he was sure of his facts.

In the End

No, you are not Michael Burry. I’m not Michael Burry. We are each as different as the snowflakes that fall upon the earth. It’s up to you and me to discover our own personal vision, mission, and goals; our own personal talents, strengths, and interests. It’s up to you and me, with the right help, to identify what groups of people can profit from our knowledge/passion/talents, and then to pursue a path that will result in value to those people in the form of our solutions, and also result in monetary profit for us.

I look forward to hearing about how Michael Burry’s story inspires you to action!

]]>http://www.myaspergers.net/what-is-aspergers/famous-people-with-aspergers-michael-burry/feed/0“Aspergers came into my life when I was forty years old…as I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate how my differences have turned out to include gifts that have set me apart.” John Elder Robison, Be Different Background and Career Michael Burry...
“Aspergers came into my life when I was forty years old…as I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate how my differences have turned out to include gifts that have set me apart.” John Elder Robison, Be Different
Background and Career
Michael Burry had a sense of being different as he grew up. When he was young, he developed cancer in one of his eyes, resulting in its removal.
Here are some quotes from a Vanity Fair article outlining some of the challenges he faced:
Eye Contact Difficulties
“It took all my energy to look someone in the eye,” he said. “If I am looking at you, that’s the one time I know I won’t be listening to you.”
Making Sense of Social Interactions
“He found it maddeningly difficult to read people’s nonverbal signals, and their verbal signals he often took more literally than they meant them. When trying his best, he was often at his worst.”
Friendships
“My nature is not to have friends,” he said. “I’m happy in my own head.”
Career and Success
Despite these challenges, Michael Burry persevered.
He attended Vanderbilt University, where he studied English, Economics, and Pre-Medicine.
After graduating from medical school, he got extra training in neurology at Stanford Hospital. As if this wasn’t enough, he became fascinated with the stock market during this time.
While working 12 hour shifts as a resident, he wrote his own stock market blog from midnight to 3 am. Corporations and independent investors started reading his blog and following his advice. This neurology resident, blogging during his ‘off hours’ amazed them all.
Dr. Michael Burry struggled with social interactions involved with patient care. His passion for numbers and analysis won out over his chosen career in medicine. So he decided to quit medicine and pursue his interests.
He started his own investment fund as a money manager. Over eight years, average U.S. stocks underperformed. But Dr. Burry’s fund made $100 million for him and $700 million for his investors during that time!
Michael’s ability to focus and analyze may have been offset by the stress of dealing with the investor relations side of his business. He eventually shut down his investing firm to focus on his own personal investments.
At age 35, Michael Burry found out about his own diagnosis of Aspergers after his 4 year old son was diagnosed with the same condition. He wasn’t happy about it. Just as John Elder Robison points out in his book, Be Different, Aspergers is often called a disorder. In John’s words,
…to some of us, the phrase ‘Asperger’s’ is misleading because it makes Asperger’s sound like a disease or an injury. You say, ‘I have a cold’ or ‘I’ve got a broken leg.’ Saying you ‘have’ something implies that it’s temporary and undesirable. Asperger’s isn’t like that. you’ve been Aspergian as long as you can remember, and you’ll be that way all your life. It’s a way of being, not a disease.
Eventually, he accepted his diagnosis. He met with a psychologist to better understand Aspergers as well as the impact it had on him and his family.
What We Can Learn From Michael Burry
In his book, Be Different, John Elder Robison shared some “secrets” to his success in life as an Aspergian. We can find these same success guidelines when we review Michael Burry’s life story.
Find Your Strengths and Interests
Everything begins with finding our particular strengths...]]>Steve Borgman: Therapist, Blogger, Podcasterclean12:46973